Friday 29 May 2009

5 Rescue Strategies from "Across the Pond"

If you’re doing well despite the economy, these strategies will help you do even better. If you’re worried about the Recession, these 5 strategies will show you how you can take immediate action to increase customers and profits – at little or no cost. I am delighted to share with you my learning from a recent telephone conference with top marketing consultants Chris Cardell (UK) and Bill Glazer (USA) —in Chris’ mind Bill is the world’s leading authority on Recession Immunisation. Expert advice is that all business owners should be investing their time and energy on the following:
1. 80% of your energy should go into the top 5-20% of your existing customers. Let your best customers know that you recognise and value them.
2. Inspect what you expect. Ensure every step of your sales process is properly executed.
3. The gold is in the relationship with your customers.
4. Seek and hunt new ways of doing things differently.
5. Implement the above into your business strategy.

Friday 22 May 2009

Chariots Of Fire

It's a story known across the world and brilliantly portrayed in the film "Chariots Of Fire". Eric Liddell was the hot favourite for a gold medal in the 100 metres at the 1924 Paris Olympics. Then he heard that the heats were to be held on a Sunday. After some tortuous soul searching he declined to run on the Sabbath.

His daughter, Patricia, has no doubt what would have happened if he had run. "He'd have lost. Something would have gone from his soul. He'd have broken something that was important to him".
Like Eric Liddell we can practice, train and work towards our goals, but without something to believe in we might never get away from the starting line. And because he adhered to his beliefs, Eric Liddell ended up running in a race he hadn't practiced for - and set a new Olympic record.

Beautiful People


"Beautiful people often aren't perfect. You must have a beautiful soul, and no amount of money can buy that." (Joan Duncan Oliver)

Wednesday 20 May 2009

Bucking The Trend


Bucking The Trend

Most people thought I was damn right crazy when I started up my new businesses in the middle of a recession - but I always always remained upbeat and positive about my business being a great success. I always believed in myself and just knew I could make it through the tough times. I am now operating two thriving businesses http://www.lifecoachmylife.com/ & http://www.murrayhr.com/ and my passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others holds me true to my vision.


I want to share my learning experiences with others - so please drop me an e.mail or give me a call if you want to hear further about it.


You can access my first professional interview with Glasgow Caledonian University's Alumni Magazine from the link below.





Tel: 07947 723 495


Friday 15 May 2009

Curtains of Creativity

Changing the décor in your home can make you and all your family feel completely refreshed and raring to go for summertime. From giving the walls a lick of paint, adding a border, or just changing the curtains—it all adds to the final ambience of your home. Making simple changes in the home can make a world of difference. Simple things like bringing out the old favourite photos and putting them in stylish frames on the walls in the house can make a huge impact. And for those of us who do need a bit of cheering up buy yourself a fresh bunch of flowers every few weeks—the ultimate pick me up when you walk into your living room! So what are you waiting for start making those creative changes and you’ll feel so much better for it!

Monday 4 May 2009

A Flavour of 4 Months


Hi all,


Welcome to Day 124 of my video diary. Yes, I know Day 34 wasn't that inspiring however it was unedited and sometimes you just need to add a little music in life. Anyway Day 34 was in the very early days, yep and so is Day 124 but listen to my words of wisdom - please check it out on Youtube. Click on the link below. Hope you enjoy!!




Claire

Saturday 2 May 2009

Seven Steps to Start-up

Successfully starting and running your own business is one of the most intensely satisfying things you can to in life. However, it’s rather like an extreme sport—exhilarating when you win, and painful when you don’t. What makes people successful in business start-up? Here are 7 important steps:
1. Have a good idea—Know what you’re going to do, love it and understand it. This will reduce risks.
2. Check out the competition—See who is already active in your chosen field and work out how you’re going to be different.
3. Do the sums—How much have you got to invest and live on for the next few months? Work out how much money do you need to get started, then double it.
4. Seek advice—There are Government funded advice agencies able to offer independent guidance and support.
5. Write a business plan.
6. Test the market—Without customers you have no business. Find out what potential customers want.
7. Measure everything—Don’t get so tied up working in your business that you have no time to work on your business. Stand back and look at what you’re doing and record everything.
[The Life Plan, 2007]